What Can You Expect From A Typical Toronto Nose Job Recovery?

Rhinoplasty, or a nose job, is one of most sought after facial cosmetic surgery procedures amongst both men and women, because many people know that improving the size and shape of their nose can dramatically change their facial appearance.

If you are interested in undergoing a Toronto nose job, you may be wondering what the recovery period entails. Although the recovery time will vary from patient to patient, in most cases, a good 7-10 days of downtime is necessary following a nose job. A timeline of the recovery process is outlined below.

1-2 Weeks

Although it is possible to return to work in as few as 7 days, it is advisable to schedule one to two weeks off from work and other responsibilities after your nose job in Toronto, particularly if you do not want your surgery to be detected by colleagues and friends. Approximately one week after your procedure, your splint will be removed, however, a little swelling and bruising may persist for up to two weeks.

Sometimes people experience a headache, dull aching or nausea for the first few days after the procedure, however a pain medication will be prescribed to ensure your comfort during the recovery period. In most instances, patients may not even require pain medication but can certainly use an over the counter pain medication like Tylenol if needed.

It is also not uncommon for patients to experience congestion, which can make breathing through the nose difficult but a stuffy nose usually improves considerably after the first few days. At Solomon Facial Plastic, we typically recommend our patients use a saline spray to help ease congestion.

3-4 Weeks

Following a Toronto nose job, patients can resume work within one to two weeks but strenuous physical activities should be avoided for the first four weeks post-operatively. Although exercise can be gradually reintroduced, contact sports should be avoided for the at least 3 months. After three to four weeks, the swelling will slowly subside, however, most patients continue to feel congested as a result of internal swelling in the nose. Saline spray may still be used at this time.

6 Weeks

Although residual swelling will be present for several months, within approximately 6 weeks, patients will begin to see the results of the procedure, as swelling subsides, particularly the upper third of the nose. However, it is important to recognize that swelling in the middle and lower third of the nose may persist for several more months due to the effects of gravity.

12-18 Months

While subtle changes will be evident within one to two months of the procedure and the nose will appear much more refined after three to four months, swelling in the tip can take 12 months to subside. As a result, it may take one year to see final results of the procedure. Thus, although it is difficult, it is crucial to be patient during the recovery process, as you may not see your desired results right away.

If you are interested in a nose job in Toronto, please contact our clinic to schedule a consultation with Dr. Solomon, a leading Otolaryngologist Head and Neck Surgeon specializing in rhinoplasty and facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgery.